Elliott Smith “Either/Or” (Album Review)

Genres: Singer-Songwriter, Indie Folk, Indie Pop

        Featuring many of Elliott Smith’s most iconic tracks, Either/Or is a record that feels as powerful and vast as it does secluded and intimate. One of Smith’s greatest strengths is how he creates such a great emotional response through his oft-gentle voice and expressive lyricism. Undeniably well crafted, the true beauty of Either/Or lies in its almost superhuman execution.

        An important aspect of Smith’s lyricism is how he is able to weave sincerity into his music. Many fans are able to strongly relate to his songs, even when he depicts a situation that’s dissimilar to theirs, because of how the heartfelt nature of his lyrics establishes an emotional connection with listeners. By creating an understanding in this way, it’s almost as if his music starts a conversation with his audience and their feelings. A line such as, “I’m damaged bad at best” on “Say Yes” is simple, but carries so much emotional weight from the conviction with which he sings this. This is not to say that Elliott Smith doesn’t have thoughtful and clever lyrics, but through this direct approach he avoids purple prose, instead choosing a straightforward method to communicate his thoughts. 

        Smith’s vocal performance on the record is almost deceptively charismatic. With how tender and softly he uses his voice, such a large focus is placed on what he’s saying, which makes people pay attention to the meaning behind his words. He draws you in with beautifully sung melodies, and keeps your attention through his captivating storytelling and lush instrumentation. However, the power of Smith’s voice is so great that there are occasions where it feels like the instrumentation doesn’t quite match up to that level of quality, which creates a disjointing feeling. Attention is taken away from Smith himself as the instrumentation gets either too simplistic or too overbearing. When the perfect balance is struck is where Smith truly shines.

        Either/Or is an incredible collection of songs that reveal Elliott Smith’s state of mind and inner conflicts. It’s a stunning display of vulnerability, which is part of why Smith is so gravitational. These songs are so dense and capture specific moments, which ends up causing some emotional whiplash going from song to song, but also shows the separate worlds created for them to exist in. One of the most highly charged and touching records ever created, Either/Or is the perfect guide to understanding Elliott Smith and his music.

Favorite Tracks: 2:45 AM, Speed Trials, Between the Bars, Say Yes, No Name No. 5, Ballad of Big Nothing, Angeles

Least Favorites: Rose Parade, Punch and Judy

Emotionally: Mid 9

Critically: Low 9

Arbitrary Number: 9.3/10